Hysteroscopic surgery

Hysteroscopy and visually directed endometrial sampling have replaced blind curettage for the diagnosis of endometrial disease. Hysteroscopy can be used to detect endometrial cancer and various premalignant lesions, as well as to diagnose intrauterine polyps and submucous fibroids. It can also be used to locate lost intrauterine devices, assess the shape and size of the endometrial cavity during an infertility work-up and to visualise intrauterine septae and adhesions. If the hysteroscopist possesses special skills and training, it can be used to perform intrauterine sterilisation by occluding the tubal ostia. The ability to perform endometrial ablation as an alternative to hysterectomy in patients with menorrhagia has led to reduction in the number of hysterectomies performed. Long-term follow-up has confirmed the success of this procedure, but it is not without complications. The inherent dangers and complications of endometrial ablation and the considerable skill and training it requires has led to the development of numerous second-generation devices, which can involve balloons that are heated with circulating fluid, impedance-controlled endometrial ablation or surface electrodes, heated fluid running through the hysteroscope under direct vision or the use of microwaves or cryotherapy. This chapter reviews the techniques, potential complications and evidence for the effectiveness of the common diagnostic and therapeutic hysteroscopic procedures.